Natalie and Xavier have been having difficulties in their relationship for a long time. They've stopped being kind to one another and do not treat each other respectfully. In one particular argument, Xavier accuses Natalie of spending too much time with her friends, but she fires back that it is because he ignores her when they are home. He says he ignores her because she is always nagging him. Natalie and Xavier's portrayal of themselves as victims, and their denial of responsibility for their own behavior, are examples of which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Defensiveness is characterized by self-protection in the form of righteous indignation or innocent victimhood in attempt to ward off a perceived attack. Natalie and Xavier are both portraying themselves as victims and denying responsibility for their actions, which aligns with the definition of defensiveness.

Natalie and Xavier Have Been Having Difficulties in Their Relationship